Nintendo Support

How to Restore a Nintendo Switch 2 Console to Factory Settings Without Deleting Save Data

How to delete data on the Nintendo Switch 2 without deleting save data, screenshots, videos, or user information using Recovery Mode.

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 console

Save data, screenshots, and user information will not be deleted but software saved on the microSD Express card (except for screenshots) will be unusable.

Complete these steps

  • Power off the console.

  • Press and hold down the volume up (+) and volume down (-) buttons, press the POWER Button once to turn the console on.

  • Keep holding down the volume buttons until the menu for Recovery Mode appears.

  • Once in Recovery Mode, select Restore Settings (Keep User Data).

    • If a Parental Control PIN has been set for the console, you will be prompted to enter it to proceed.

  • Read through the information, then select Next.

  • Select Restore Settings (Keep User Data).